Episode 3: Inspector Dan Jones and Melissa Neal

This episode features a conversation with Inspector Dan Jones of the Edmonton Police Service and Melissa Neal. Dan and Melissa met years ago when Dan was working foot patrol in the City of Edmonton, Canada, and Melissa was a young person finding herself in conflict with the law. 

As the years progressed, Dan and Melissa developed a special friendship. Dan refused to give up on Melissa as she moved in and out of the criminal justice system, providing her with support, guidance and encouragement, and she leaned on him for help, support, and stability. 

Melissa's story is important to share. In this discussion, she is open and vulnerable as she talks about her life experience and struggle in steering herself out of a life of crime, chaos, and addiction. Her story and the insights she shares as someone who has now come out the other side shows how important it is to have someone care and believe in you - and believe in yourself. There are many layers and trauma that often exist for those who find themselves in the criminal justice system and it is important for justice system actors - as well as the general public - to understand this in making meaningful justice transformation, working towards outcomes that make a difference, and increasing empathy. Hearing stories such as Melissa's from a firsthand perspective is a powerful way to learn. 

Twitter: Inspector Dan Jones @JonesDJ37